News

Blue Cross steps in after owner can’t afford dog’s lifesaving surgery

30 Apr 2012

A poorly dog who needed emergency lifesaving surgery that his owner couldn’t afford is now on the mend after Blue Cross came to his rescue.

Seven-year-old daschund Wallsie was rushed to the vets after he suddenly collapsed and an MRI scan revealed that he had a ruptured disc.

The injury was crushing Wallsie’s spinal cord and causing paralysis but, although his owner Audrey Pearson’s insurance policy covered the cost for the diagnosis, it wouldn’t cover the expensive surgery Wallsie needed to remove the slipped disc.

Unable to meet the cost herself, she was faced with the prospect of having her much-loved pet put to sleep.

Thankfully, Mrs Pearson’s vets got in touch with the Blue Cross Victoria animal hospital to see if she was eligible for help from us, which she was.

We stepped in straightaway to offer him the lifesaving surgery he needed.
 
Mrs Pearson says: ”When I found out that the insurance policy wouldn’t cover the expensive surgery he needed I just didn’t know what to do and started to panic that I might lose him – it was unthinkable.”

Blue Cross vets removed the ruptured disc from his spinal canal so that the spinal cord could return to its normal position and allow him to walk again.

Within days Wallsie was up and about and given gentle exercise with the support of a special sling. Only four days later he was allowed to go home.

Jess Gower, Blue Cross veterinary surgeon says: “We were only too happy to help Mrs Pearson and her little dog Wallsie.

“This type of surgery can run into thousands of pounds so it’s worth making sure you have the right pet insurance policy in place so that you’re covered if the worst happens.”

Mrs Pearson adds: “I’m just so grateful that Blue Cross could help Wallsie and that everyone has been so kind.”

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